Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is on the brink of making history as he prepares to play in Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL). If the deal goes through, he will become the first Indian male cricketer to feature in the tournament.
A New Journey Beyond IPL
Ashwin’s decision to retire from the Indian Premier League (IPL) has opened the door for him to join overseas franchise competitions. According to reports, four BBL teams — Sydney Thunder, Hobart Hurricanes, Sydney Sixers, and Adelaide Strikers — are interested in signing him. Thunder and Hurricanes are said to be leading the race, with an agreement expected soon.
Under regulations set by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), only retired Indian players are allowed to take part in foreign leagues. Over the past few years, cricketers such as Dinesh Karthik, Ambati Rayudu, Robin Uthappa, Yusuf Pathan, and Suresh Raina have played in international T20 or T10 leagues after stepping away from Indian domestic cricket.
Ashwin has also registered for the UAE’s International T20 League, which will run from December 2 to January 4. Since the BBL begins on December 14 and continues until late January, he is likely to miss the opening matches but could be available for the final few games — including the playoffs and final, depending on his team’s progress.
Contract and Future Prospects
BBL rules allow teams to field three overseas players in their playing XI, with the option of adding replacement signings. This makes Ashwin’s inclusion possible even though most clubs have already filled their overseas slots. Reports suggest the deal could also cover the 2026–27 season, giving Ashwin another opportunity to feature in the league.
